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Name: Frank
Username: paperstreet
Hometown: Chicago, IL and Coloma, MI
Occupation: 2nd 2nd Assistant Director
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What attracted you to the Entertainment Industry, and what was your first job or big break in the business?
I love movies. I always have, and I always will. It may seem obvious that someone who works in film loves movies, but for a lot of people it's just a job or just status. I could watch movies all day; I often do. PGL is really my first big break.
What is the biggest challenge you faced trying to break into the industry, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest obstacle to breaking into the industry has been working in the industry. 70 hours a week at a flat day rate leaves precious little time for screenwriting and self- promotion. Again, PGL is my big chance (I know; it's sad to think this could be the summit of my career).
What advice can you give those trying to break into the "industry?"
Forget the "industry." Get into the "business;" that's where it's at...
Please describe your job for those that might not know what a 2nd 2nd Assistant Director is.
The 2nd 2nd Assistant Director actually splits various tasks with the 2nd Assistant Director. In this case, I help manage the Production Assistants, direct or coordinate background and various other catch all vehicle and communication tasks.
Can you share any tricks of the trade that help you work faster/cheaper/better?
I could share those tricks and secrets but then they wouldn't be tricks or secrets anymore, would they? Caffeine and meditation, used in tandem is a good start.
Please illustrate the way the performance of your position can help or hurt a movie. Name a movie that you've seen (or worked on) that we could view and understand the difference between a good job and a bad job.
You'd never know it because my department supports other departments. As far as sound and picture is concerned, I don't do anything; without us, however, the people who do make sound and picture happen (actors, director, camera etc...) would have a really hard time.
Are you a writer, and if so, how many screenplays have you written?
I am currently struggling to finish 3 incomplete screenplays, Kafka style (A night, in the odd spare moment).
What's the best lesson you've learned in regards to working in Hollywood?
I actually don't work in Hollywood, you L.A.-centric jerks. I am a Chicago film worker. One day, I'll be a Chicago writer/director.
What advice would you give to writers on how to craft a script that addresses practical production issues?
Avoid night exteriors, keep the number of characters and locations lower and get actual production experience so you see what happens between paper and film.
What advice would you give a director on how to make production easier?
Either really Hollywood (meaning really cliché and rapid) so you can get studio money, or write really smart so you can make it independently. Or, of course, you could just win Project Greenlight so you get the best of both.
List your top 5 favorite films:
- Miller's Crossing
- The Beast (Kevin Reynolds)
- City of Lost Children
- Bottle Rocket
- Fight Club
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